Install Chain link part 3

Install a Chain-Link Fence

Whether you want to keep things in or keep things out, a chain-link fence is just the thing. Installing a chain-link fence is a great do-it-yourself project. All you need is a little direction. Lowe's has everything you need to get started.

Tools & Materials

Print

Use this checklist when you go to the store and purchase your items.

• Chalk Line
• Stakes
• Measuring Tape
• Posthole Digger
• Wheelbarrow
• Shovel
• Hoe
• Carpenter's Level
• 1/2-in. and 9/16-in. Wrench
• Hacksaw
• Fence Stretcher
• Pliers
• Tension Wire Clip
• Fence Fabric, Posts and Other Materials

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Before Beginning Your Fence Installation

It's important to check:

• That fence footings don't exceed legally established property lines. If you're uncertain, refer to a real estate agent's line plot, or consult a professional surveyor
• Local codes for specifications regarding frontage locations, allowable fence heights, etc. A permit may be required

For underground utilities, call the North America One Call Referral Service at 1-888-258-0808 (or just dial 811) for a national directory of utility companies.
View a printable parts and materials shopping list.
View a post spacing guide and graph paper.

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Preparing Fence Layout

Use the following steps to lay out your chain-link fence.

Step 1 Locate your property's boundary lines. It's recommended that all posts be set approximately 4 inches inside the property line so that concrete footings don't encroach onto any adjoining property.

Step 2 Measure the overall length of your planned fence to determine how many feet of chain-link fabric and top rail will be required (Fig. 1).

Step 3 Mark the location of each terminal post (corner, end and gateposts are called terminal posts) with a stake. When determining the positions of gateposts, remember that clearance for hinges, latches, etc., is included in the listed opening width of the gate. Therefore, if you ordered a gate for a 36-inch opening, the post spacing should be exactly 36 inches, inside post face to inside post face.

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Setting Terminal Posts

The steps below will help you to set the terminal posts.

Step 1 Dig the terminal postholes approximately 8 inches in diameter and 30 inches deep, with sloping sides (Fig. 2). The exact diameter and depth will be determined by local weather and soil conditions.

Step 2 With crayon or chalk, mark the ground line on the posts. The height, above level ground, of the terminal posts will equal the height of the fence fabric plus 2 inches.

Step 3 Center the terminal posts in the holes. Make sure the posts are plumb and set at the correct height. (Crayon mark should be at ground level.) Surround the posts with concrete in a continuous pour. Trowel finish around the posts and slope downward to direct water away.

Sterling Fence Inc can advise you on how to do this or we can install for you